Judy Blume: podcast appearances and interviews

Judith Marcia Blume, born on February 12, 1938, is an American author known for her contributions to children's, young adult, and adult fiction. She began her writing career in 1959 and has published more than 26 novels. Among her most recognized works are Superfudge, Are You There God? It s Me, Margaret., Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, Deenie, Blubber, and Double Fudge. Her books have had a significant impact on children's and young adult literature, and they have been translated into 32 languages. Blume was born and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and graduated from New York University in 1961. She started writing stories seeking a creative outlet that complemented her role as a homemaker. As one of the first young adult authors to explore controversial topics such as masturbation, menstruation, teen sex, birth control, and death, her novels have helped educate young readers about their bodies. Her work has sold over 82 million copies. Despite their educational value, her books have also sparked controversy and have faced bans in U.S. schools and libraries. Several of her novels have been adapted into films, including Tiger Eyes and Are You There God? It s Me, Margaret. A substantial collection of her papers is held at Yale University s Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. In 2023, she was recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.